It may be that while Peter was thus denying his Lord, Jesus was passing from Annas to Caiaphas, and in doing so cast on the stumbling disciple that look of mingled sorrow and love which broke his heart. John does not dwell on the trial before Caiaphas, because the other evangelists have already described it; but passes on to tell more minutely of the vacillation and weakness of Pilate. The Roman governor first sought to rid himself of the responsibility of deciding the ease. He refused to consider that it came within his jurisdiction, because it seemed connected with some religious dispute involving a technical knowledge which he did not possess. He suggested, therefore, that the Jewish leaders should deal with it under their own statutes. There was no apparent need for Roman law to interfere. When, however, the murderous intent of the high priests emerged, it became evident that their charges against Jesus were of a much more serious character, and Pilate was compelled to give his earnest attention to them. How little he realized the momentous issues to be decided that day! [source]
Chapter Summary: John 18
1Judas betrays Jesus 6The officers fall to the ground 10Peter cuts off Malchus' ear 12Jesus is taken, and led unto Annas and Caiaphas 15Peter's denial 19Jesus examined before Caiaphas 25Peter's second and third denial 28Jesus arraigned before Pilate 36His kingdom 40The Jews prefer Barabbas
Greek Commentary for John 18:27
The cock crew [] The Greek has not the definite article. See on Matthew 26:34. The use of the article would seem to mark the time, cock-crowing, rather than the incident. [source]
Greek Commentary for John 18:27
The Greek has not the definite article. See on Matthew 26:34. The use of the article would seem to mark the time, cock-crowing, rather than the incident. [source]